Getting Started
Overview of the user interface and core functionalities of VICUS Districts
VICUS Districts: Quick Start Guide
This documentation provides an overview of the user interface and core functionalities of VICUS Districts for heating network simulation and building modeling.
1. Getting Started
When launching the software for the first time, it is recommended to explore the built-in examples.
- Action: Navigate to the “Netzbeispiele” (Network Examples) tab and open a sample project.
- Benefit: Quickly see how a network is structured, how stationary calculations are performed, and how results are visualized.
2. Interface Overview
The Navigation Tree (Left Side)
The tree manages all project elements:
- Selection: Clicking an element in the tree highlights it in the map view.
- Visibility: Use the “Lightbulb” icons to toggle layers or specific elements on/off.
- Editing: Double-click any element in the tree to rename it.
Interaction & Controls
- Additive Selection: Selecting multiple items adds them to the selection.
- Deselect: Press
ESCto clear all current selections. - Navigation: Hold the Spacebar while moving in the 3D/2D view to increase movement speed — especially useful for large models.
3. Network Design & Configuration
Data Import
VICUS Districts supports several import formats to speed up model creation:
- GIS Data
- OpenStreetMap (OSM)
- DXF Plans
- PDF Plans
Key Configuration Tabs (Right Side)
| Tab | Function |
|---|---|
| General | Define the fluid type and use topology tools like “Auto-connect consumers.” |
| Building Demand | Visualize connected loads and heating energy requirements. |
| Pipe Dimensioning | Assign pipe types and view lengths/dimensions directly in the scene. |
| Systems | Configure house transfer stations and central energy plants. |
| Soil Conditions | Set ground temperatures and boundary conditions for heat loss. |
4. Calculation & Simulation
Stationary Analysis
Provides a “snapshot” of the network performance.
- Displays the pressure curve.
- Identifies the hydraulically most remote point.
- Offers automatic pump dimensioning based on a built-in database.
Dynamic Simulation
Uses time-dependent data for high-fidelity results.
- Climate Data: Import weather data directly from the German Weather Service (DWD).
- Hourly Results: Analyze hourly performance for heating power, COP, and network heat losses.
5. Reporting & Outputs
- Bill of Materials: Generates a complete list of all pipes, T-pieces, reducers, and fittings.
- Results Summary: Provides a high-level overview of the most important simulation metrics.
Reference: VICUS Basics Tutorial